
Hawfinch
Hawfinch
40
1 day ago




+5
Spotted by
The Hawfinch is the largest European finch, easily recognized by its massive, conical bill, powerful neck, and chunky build. Its plumage is a blend of orange-brown, grey, and black, accented by iridescent blue-black on its wings.
Where to spot
Found across temperate Europe and Asia, inhabiting deciduous or mixed woodlands, orchards, and large gardens, often preferring mature trees for nesting and foraging.
How to spot
Look for its distinctive large head and bill, and relatively short tail. Hawfinches can be shy and hard to spot within dense foliage, often remaining high in the canopy. Listen for its sharp, explosive 'tzik' or 'pix' call, often given in flight.
When to spot
Observable year-round in its resident range, though it can be elusive. They are sometimes more visible in winter when foraging for fallen seeds and fruit. Breeding activity occurs in spring and early summer.
Where to spot
Found across temperate Europe and Asia, inhabiting deciduous or mixed woodlands, orchards, and large gardens, often preferring mature trees for nesting and foraging.
How to spot
Look for its distinctive large head and bill, and relatively short tail. Hawfinches can be shy and hard to spot within dense foliage, often remaining high in the canopy. Listen for its sharp, explosive 'tzik' or 'pix' call, often given in flight.
When to spot
Observable year-round in its resident range, though it can be elusive. They are sometimes more visible in winter when foraging for fallen seeds and fruit. Breeding activity occurs in spring and early summer.
The Hawfinch's exceptionally powerful bill is capable of cracking open cherry stones, olive pits, and even plum pits with an astonishing force of up to 50 kg, allowing it to feed on hard seeds inaccessible to other birds.
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Spotted
- Recently spotted
- 1747 (Seen in the last 3 months)
- Last spotted
- 1 day ago